Mark Renshaw, of Columbia-HTC, will unfortunately be missing the Tour Down Under in January, due to recovering from the Epstein-Barr virus. He was diagnosed earlier this month, and seems to be recovering just fine; he is “showing good initial progress,” according to Team Columbia-HTC doctor Helge Riepenhof. Renshaw was a huge help in Columbia-HTC’s record 85 victories this year. He was absent from training camp this month while he recovers from the virus, and will continue to recover during the first few races of the season. His team is keeping a close eye on his recovery, and his blood tests show good results. “We don’t see his 2010 season goals in any danger. He would have loved to race in Tour Down Under but we are confident that he will once again show great performances in the Grand Tours as a lead out for…

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Yesterday, former downhill world champion Melissa “Missy” Giove plead guilty to conspiracy charges in relation to a marijuana smuggling ring. Along with 37-year-old Giove, two others were arrested; 26-year-old Tamara Geagly and 30-year-old Eric Canori in New York in June. At the time of the arrest, DEA agents seized more than 300 pounds of marijuana. Giove has agreed to cooperate with authorities, under the assumption that they will recommend a lighter sentence for her. Her sentencing will take place on March 25th, 2010, but even with cooperation with authorities, she still faces up to five years in prison.

Via Velo News….

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Italian Davide Rebellin plans to prove his innocence in regards to charges that he used the banned blood-booster CERA during the Beijing Olympics. “There is nothing to confess. I never used CERA,” he said to Italian Gazzetta dello Sport. “There will always be someone who will think that I doped. I respect that everyone has to say what he thinks. But I’m going to hold my head high,” he adds. Rebellin has already returned his silver medal since testing positive for EPO. Rebellin and his attorney are prepared to bring evidence to the table proving that he didn’t dope, finding that there are “too many mysteries in the affair” and “regulations not complied with, principles violated.” Despite the ongoing charges, Rebellin continues to train and plans to return to cycling. “The day after I heard the news I went out on my bike….

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French officials have announced that they are investigating some blood doping equipment which was found in a search of Astana‘s medical supplies. French newspaper Le Monde was first to report on the find, and a source has confirmed so today. Even though blood transfusions are banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency, the source said that the possession of the equipment does not automatically mean a doping violation has been committed. “No trace of any doping product has for the time being been uncovered by the analysis of this material,” says the source. Anti-hypertensive products were also found during the search. While they are not banned, they can be used to treat hypertension which comes along with blood doping.

Via Velo News….

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Cool Rain who is known for creating and distributing vinyl toys brings us a small preview of the upcoming Cinelli Fixed Gear toy they plan on releasing. Using the Cinelli Vigorelli, the vinyl toy also comes with a figure dressed in Cinelli clothing. To our understanding, the company designed this Cinelli fixed gear toy without Cinelli’s permission, but their is a rumor that the two have came together and reconciled the differences, although not an official collaboration.

Source: Prollyisnotprobably…

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Rafael Hoffleit first introduced his custom carbon triathlon bike at the European Handmade Bicycle Exhibition, and with attention foces on the R-008, R-009, Rafael shows us the newest model, the R-011. The Rafael R-011 Carbon Triathlon Custom Bike features a integrated hydration and steering system allowing you to use hidden standard cable shifting systems, while you can place the fluid in the hydration system by the top and refill while riding. Check out the other pictures below.

Source: Bicycle Design…

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The Specialized Uracco Road Optics are a unique set of sunglasses specifically suited to road cycling. Their exclusive Adaptalilte formula adjusts to existing conditions, and they also enhance the color red for extra safety. The lenses are lightweight and are also shatterproof, in case you drop them. Adjustable dual-density ear pieces make for a comfortable and customizable fit. You can purchase the Specialized Uracco Road Optics at the Specialized online shop for $130….

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